Description
A budget-friendly, forgiving slow cooker recipe that produces tender, smoky pulled pork with a flavorful bark. Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3–4 lbs pork shoulder (Boston Butt)
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp chili powder (pure, not taco seasoning)
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (light)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and brown sugar to create the dry rub.
- Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels to ensure the rub adheres and bark forms. Trim large chunks of hard fat if necessary, but leave marbling.
- Rub the spice mix generously all over the pork, ensuring every inch is coated.
- Place the seasoned pork into the slow cooker insert. Pour the chicken broth around the base of the meat (do not pour over the top).
- Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours, or on HIGH for 5-6 hours if in a rush.
- Remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Shred the pork using two forks, discarding any large pieces of unwanted fat.
- Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker or a large bowl. Stir in the barbecue sauce and apple cider vinegar.
- Let the pork sit in the warm slow cooker for 10 more minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
Ensure the pork surface is dry before applying the rub for the best bark. Do not add barbecue sauce before cooking as the acid can toughen the meat. This recipe freezes well for up to 3 months. For a crispier bark, spread shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approx. 1/8th of the
- Calories: 450
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 18
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 30
Keywords: slow cooker, pulled pork, budget dinner, meal prep, smoky bark, family dinner, pork shoulder, easy recipes